The script has been changed again. The Indian management asked for batting-friendly tracks against the West Indies. Despite the move working well against South Africa in Kolkata, the demand was changed to a spin-friendly surface. That move backfired, and the request has seemingly been changed again.
Yesterday, it was reported that a red soil surface will be used in Guwahati, with India asking for pace and bounce. Ashish Bhowmick, who’s the head curator at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium and also serves as the head curator of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has been informed about the request.
First glimpse of the Guwahati pitch
With less than 48 hours left before the India vs South Africa 2nd Test begins, the first glimpse of the Guwahati pitch is here. At the moment, the middle part of the surface has a tinge of green. Given red soil surfaces are known for pace and bounce, this image suggests that’s exactly what’ll happen.
Unlike black soil pitches, red soil surfaces don’t break early. But that doesn’t mean there won’t be spin. If the grass isn’t trimmed, we might see spinners take control in the latter half of the Guwahati Test. But if the grass is trimmed, they might come in early.
What’s expected is that if the ball spins, it’ll be at pace and bounce. The batters probably won’t enjoy it, but it’ll be better than whatever was happening at the Eden Gardens.
Since it’s Guwahati’s maiden Test match, the BCCI wants to ensure a negative image of the surface isn’t created. That’s why a more balanced pitch will be rolled out.
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